Memorial

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Just before the recall, about 30 minutes before reaching the target, the B-17 got into trouble due to the electrical system being out of order for an unknown reason. All instruments failed to work, and one engine was running away. The crew managed to feather the engine. Pilot Lt Foley decided to turn for England. The bombs were dropped, and the plane was set in a dive for a hitting-the-deck return. At 10,000 feet, two ME-109s began shooting at the Heavenly Daze. Shells were striking the plane, setting a wing on fire close to the fuselage. One side of the compartment, next to the wing, was burning furiously. The fire blocked access to the rear of the plane. Being in a very hairy position now, Lt Foley gave the order to bail out. All the crew got out of the burning plane safely, except the unfortunate ball turret gunner, S/Sgt Cadle, who was trapped in his turret. The Heavenly Daze crashed near Osnabrück at about 1200 hours.